APPROVED BY THE PITTSFIELD SCHOOL BOARD

STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE UNIT #51
PITTSFIELD SCHOOL BOARD

MINUTES

Pittsfield School Board Meeting
Thursday, September 22, 2010
Pittsfield Middle High School

I. CALL TO ORDER

Members Present: Mary Paradise, Chairperson (arrival at 6:00 p.m.)
Michael Wolfe, Vice Chairperson
Elizabeth Adams
Kathy Corliss (arrival at 5:42 p.m.)
Clayton Wood

Others Present: John Freeman, Superintendent
Tobi Gray Chassie, Director of Student Services
Robert Bickford, Principal, PMHS
Lois-Jean Stevens, Coordinator of Student Services

Vice Chairperson Michael Wolfe called the meeting to order at 5:33 p.m.

II. AGENDA REVIEW

The following items were added to the agenda:
• School Board Authority (Ms. Adams)
• Remove PMHS Advisory Council (Dr. Freeman)
• Presentation – Eagle Scout Project (Dr. Freeman)
• English Department Update (Mr. Bickford)

III. ACTION ON AMENDED AGENDA

On a motion made by Mr. Wood and seconded by Ms. Adams, the Board voted unanimously to approve the amended agenda.

IV. INTRODUCTION

Ms. Chassie introduced Susan McTague, special education teacher in the area of English Language Arts and case manager for grades 11 and 12. Ms. McTague was welcomed by the School Board.

V. PRESENTATION

PMHS Student Brian Ward explained that he would like to complete his Eagle Scout project by repairing the walking trail at Drake Field. Brian explained that he is raising funds and recruiting community members to assist him in this project. He described some of the work that is planned. The School Board approved of the project and Vice Chairperson Wolfe signed the appropriate authorizations for Brian.

VI. PITTSFIELD POLICE DEPARTMENT

Dr. Freeman welcomed Pittsfield Police Chief Robert Wharem and thanked him for accepting the invitation of the Board to join their meeting to answer questions regarding jurisdiction.

Chief Wharem stated that the current administration, in his opinion, has been the most efficient and effective in its management of the school during his tenure as chief. He said that the police department is called to the schools when there has been a crime committed within the school. Although there is always room for improvement, Chief Wharem reported that the working relationship between the schools and the police department is strong.

Mr. Wharem distributed copies of RSA 193-D regarding “Safe School Zones.”

Upon being asked about a student’s rights during an investigation, Chief Wharem explained that if students are being questioned in a group in order to gather information, they would not have their Miranda Rights read, as there would be no reason to do so given that an arrest was not made. The age of the student is a factor to take into consideration. Parents are called when it is deemed appropriate. Chief Wharem explained that when there is damage sustained in the school, he leaves it up to the school administration as to whether charges are filed, considering the school as the victim.

Ms. Corliss stated that she was not aware that 17 year old students were considered adults and wondered if the students know that. Chief Wharem suggested that he work with Principal Bickford and Superintendent Freeman to outline the issues and identify strategies to remedy them.

Ms. Adams stated that she would like to use this as an opportunity to help students understand their rights and responsibilities. Chief Wharem explained that, using a grant, materials were purchased, including a program called Now That You Are 16. This program can be used to teach students some important concepts relative to their relationship with the law.

Chief Wharem welcomed the opportunity for the Pittsfield Police Department to work with the administration of the school district. Mr. Wood explained that although he had questions about a specific incident that occurred, he generally
feels positive about the way in which it was handled.

Ms. Adams asked about the proposal to incorporate a canine unit. Chief Wharem said that the project is in the fund-raising phase of the program; the Select Board has not yet approved the program.

Dr. Freeman thanked Chief Wharem for the kind words and willingness to cooperate. He said that Chief Wharem is accessible, responsive, and always willing to have a conversation with the administration.

VII. PUBIC INPUT – None

VIII. APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES

A motion was made by Mr. Wood and seconded by Mr. Wolfe to approve minutes of the September 9, 2010, meeting.

Ms. Adams stated that on page 4, letter D, January 27, 2010 should be January 27, 2011.

The motion carried unanimously to approve the minutes as amended.

IX. PES ADMINISTRATION

A. EARLY RELEASE DAYS

Mr. Kilmister’s report explained the use of the monthly early release days. He explained that the first one, on September 22, 2010, will focus on an interactive training session on science notebooks and NECAP accommodations.

B. ADULT COMMUNITY GUIDELINES

Mr. Kilmister’s report outlined the adult community guidelines that have been developed by the faculty and staff.

C. PES CALENDAR

Mr. Kilmister listed upcoming events, including the Open House. Ms. Paradise reminded the Board that tonight’s meeting was moved to accommodate this event and that Board members are invited to participate in the Open House.

X. PMHS ADMINISTRATION

A. PMHS LOGO APPROVAL

Mr. Bickford explained that of five logos that are currently being used within the school and by various teams; a poll of students and faculty identified the “PMHS Athletic Logo” as the preferred school logo.

On a motion made by Mr. Wood, and seconded by Ms. Corliss, the Board voted unanimously to adopt the “PMHS Athletic Logo” for further use as the official PMHS school logo.

B. COMPREHENSIVE GUIDANCE PROGRAM

Mr. Bickford explained that he has met with the PMHS guidance councilors to begin the process of implementing the comprehensive guidance program that was written several years ago. He further explained that, with the implementation of the comprehensive guidance program, there will be some adjusting of roles and responsibilities within the guidance program.

Ms. Corliss asked if updates could be provided to the Board on issues such as Advisories. She stated that information relative to the progress of initiatives would be appreciated. Ms. Paradise suggested that Mr. Bickford choose an area to be highlighted in each of his Board reports.

Discussion ensued regarding Advisories. Concerns were stated by Ms. Corliss about not understanding the purpose of Advisories. Mr. Wood stated concerns about the lack of immediate progress with the initiatives that have been undertaken.

Dr. Freeman explained that the changes that are occurring at PMHS are dramatic and will take time. Basic systemic operations are being reviewed and changed over time. He further explained that the school leadership is in the process of changing a culture that has been established over time.

Ms. Paradise explained that the work of previous Pittsfield School Boards has been focused on fundamental issues, such as poor facilities. The current Board has the privilege of working with the most critical issue of all – curriculum, instruction, and assessment. The focus of the Board is to oversee the redesign of the middle high school in order to make improvements for all students.

C. NECAP

Mr. Bickford stated that he has met with the three junior advisories to talk with them about the importance of the upcoming NECAP assessments. As a result, the students are aware that, if they are not able to demonstrate proficiency in both math and language arts this year, they will be provided with personalized instruction during their senior year so that they can demonstrate proficiency prior to graduation.

D. ENGLISH DEPARTMENT UPDATE

Mr. Bickford reported that he has had a discussion with the English Department and they have addressed issues such as themes, book choices, and copyrighting practices. The conversation was constructive and will result in attention to these issues.

E. SITE BASED COUNCIL

Mr. Bickford reported that the first meeting of the Site Based Council was held. Consultant Nelson Beaudoin of CSSR is going to help the Council in the startup process.

F. COMMON PLANNING TIME

According to Mr. Bickford, the four common planning time teams – 7/8,
9/10, 11/12, and unified arts – are becoming highly effective in their work and have far exceeded expectations.

XI. STUDENT SERVICES ADMINISTRATION – None

XII. SAU ADMINISTRATION

A. SCHOOL BOARD POLICIES, ADOPTION

The following recommended policies were previously approved for reading; they are now presented for consideration for adoption: Policy EBBD: Indoor Air Quality, Policy JH: Attendance, Absenteeism, and Truancy, Policy JHC: Student Early release Precautions, Policy JKAA: Use of Restraints, Policy KBC: Communications Protocol.

A motion was made by Mr. Wolfe and seconded by Ms. Adams to approve
Policy EBBD: Indoor Air Quality, Policy JH: Attendance, Absenteeism, and Truancy, Policy JHC: Student Early release Precautions, Policy JKAA: Use of Restraints, and Policy KBC: Communications Protocol.

Ms. Paradise asked if since the checklist that will be provided by the New Hampshire Department of Education is not yet available, should there be a delay in approving Policy EBBD. The consensus of the Board was to approve the policy while anticipating eventual provision of the checklist.

The motion carried unanimously.

Discussion ensued regarding Policy BEB: Special Board Meetings. The Board made several modifications Policies BEB and KBC; amended policies will be brought forward for action at the next Board meeting.

B. PMHS ADVISORY COUNCIL

Dr. Freeman stated that the first meeting of the PMHS Advisory Council has occurred. He will provide further information at the next meeting.

C. CHESTNUT STREET HOUSE

Dr. Freeman stated that Pittsfield Town Administrator Paul Skowron had planned to bring the issue of possible purchase of the property in question to the attention to the Select Board on Tuesday, September 21.

D. BLINKING LIGHT

Dr. Freeman learned that the light on Catamount Street belongs to the school. There is a key to control the light. A man from the State of New Hampshire Department of Transportation will come out to train PMHS Head Custodian Jim Dawson on the operation of the light.

E. GYM FLOOR

Problems with the pouring of cement for the PMHS gym floor were described by Mr. Bickford.

F. DRAKE FIELD GRANDSTAND ROOF

Dr. Freeman provided the Board with a report from the roofing consultant regarding the need to replace the main grandstand roof as soon as possible. Ms. Paradise requested that bids be sought for the work, in the event that the Board decides to have it repaired. Further financial data is needed before making the final decision. Ms. Corliss requested that the trees be trimmed behind the grandstand to allow for better air movement.

G. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN

Dr. Freeman provided the Board with a memo relative to the district’s capital improvement planning status as well as the October 2008 memo that was previously shared.

XIII. SCHOOL BOARD

A. SCHOOL BOARD AUTHORITY

Ms. Paradise explained that the NH School Boards Association has asked for proposals for resolutions for their annual meeting. She went on to describe a proposal for a resolution regarding School Board authority. She asked for volunteers to work on the drafting of a letter in support of the proposed resolution.

Regarding this topic, Ms. Adams previously sent an email to the members of the Board and Dr. Freeman. This email follows:

Here is a little more info regarding the reason for the possibility of school boards becoming obsolete.
This has all been agreed to by the NH Dept. of Ed. and the Governor and has bypassed the Legislative branch of which many Reps. are not pleased.
It makes informative reading and will give some more background for a delegation or delegate to introduce articles for consideration at the NHSB annual meeting.
Have a good weekend.
Lea

Date: Friday, September 17, 2010, 6:06 AM
Tough Choices, seems to have been developed around the same time as CCSSI started and we know Marc Tucker is big in CCSSI.Marc Tucker’s Dear Hillary Letter – to Hillary Clinton
This would make lots of sense as many believe the assessments for CCSSI will be “skills based” like the Goals 2000 and STW/STC OBE baloney.

Smarter Balance Consortium : brought to you by Marc Tucker and Linda Darling HammondI Web’s #1 Source for K12 and Higher Education News and Commentary – EducationNews.org – Obama’s Linda Darling-Hammond and Her .. (Darling-Hammond’s failed Charter school)

State Implementation

New Hampshire
“In collaboration with Governor John Lynch and the State Board of Education, I am formally requesting New Hampshire be considered for inclusion in the consortium of states that you are developing. Now is the time to further our work to personalize education in partnership with the work defined in ‘Touch Choices or Tough Times.’ Our first step will be to develop a Board Examination system for New Hampshire. New Hampshire’s P–16 working group has authorized an investigation of possible testing programs aligned to syllabi set to international standards.” — Lyonel B. Tracy, Commissioner of Education, New Hampshire

“We are pleased to be a major partner in the state’s P-16 working group and very much support the inclusion of New Hampshire as a state with which the New Commission on the Skills of the American Workforce will assist to achieve new policies and goals to make students college ready.” — Stephen J. Reno, Chancellor, University of New Hampshire

“New Hampshire’s economy rests on the quality of its schools, colleges and universities to prepare a workforce with 21st century skills. I believe that New Hampshire is well situated and eager to move forward in this direction that will ultimately enable us to ensure that the vast number of New Hampshire students will be college ready without remediation by about 16 years of age.” — Lou D’ Allesandro, State Senator, New Hampshire

“The current economy in New Hampshire and in particular, our local community, are forcing us to look at alternative ways to meet the educational needs of our students while at the same time, meeting the needs of the community… Your work and the conclusions in ‘Tough Choices or Tough Times’ present exciting opportunities to be explored.” — Brian J. Blake, Ed.D, Superintendent of Schools, Hopkinton School District, New Hampshire

“The work of the New Commission on the Skills of the American outlines the type of thinking in which we must engage for our children’s benefit.” — Michael W. Delahanty, Superintendent of Schools, Salem School District, New Hampshire
New Hampshire State Governors Office
New Hampshire Department of Education

http://www.mooneyinstitute.org/resources/articles/mark-tucker%E2%80%99s-tough-choices-or-tough-times

The above article needs to be reread as it is even more relevant now than when written.

Note, Tucker wants public-private partnerships with his private charters paid for with public money. In essence, he is advocating the replacement of local school boards with private charter boards.

Note the writer’s concern over “America’s Choice,” which Tucker is now trying to sell to Pearson.

Considering Tucker’s influential role in the CCSSI, I think we all should be familiar with his plans.

I think it means something that Lou Gerstner (Chairman Emeritus of ACHIEVE) also wants to eliminate locals school boards.

B. PUBLIC FORUMS

Ms. Paradise suggested that the Board host public forums, such as the one that the Chief of Police is hosting at a local restaurant. The Board agreed that this would be a good idea.

XIV. COMMITTEES

A. DRAKE FIELD – Ms Corliss and Mr. Wolfe

Mr. Wolfe asked if there was money in the budget to replace the flag, to which Dr. Freeman responded affirmatively. Dr. Freeman will have it
replaced.

B. SELECT BOARD LIAISON – Mr. Wood and Ms. Adams – None

C. BUDGET COMMITTEE – Ms. Adams and Ms. Corliss – None

D. NEGOTIATING TEAM – Ms. Paradise and Mr. Wolfe – None

E. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN (CIP) COMMITTEE – None

XV. NEXT MEETING

The next School Board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October 14, 2010 at 5:30 p.m. at the Pittsfield Middle High School. Dr. Freeman will provide the Board with additional information on high school redesign projects.

XVI. NON-PUBLIC SESSION

At 8:30 p.m., a motion was made by Mr. Wolfe and seconded by Mr. Wood to enter into non-public session to discuss a student matter pursuant to RSA 91-A:3, II (c). The Board was polled and voted unanimously (Ms. Adams, yes; Ms. Corliss, yes; Ms. Paradise, yes; Mr. Wolfe, yes; Mr. Wood, yes) to enter into a non-public session.
A. OUT-OF-DISTRICT STUDENT PLACEMENT

Ms. Cassie advised the Board of an out-of-district student placement.

At 8:38 p.m., a motion was made by Ms. Vogt and seconded by Mr. Wolfe to exit the non-public session. The Board was polled and voted unanimously (Ms. Adams, yes; Ms. Corliss, yes; Ms. Paradise, yes; Mr. Wolfe, yes, Mr. Wood, yes) to re-enter into open session.

XVII. PUBLIC INPUT (Second Session) – None

XVIII. ADJOURNMENT

On a motion made by Mr. Wolfe and seconded by Ms. Corliss, the Board voted unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 8:38 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Tobi Gray Chassie
Recording Secretary